My filter minder was tough to get off. I used an old screwdriver that had no sharp edges and poked at the rubber around the edges and got it off. To get in on the new filter assembly, I had to use a small amount some oil to get it to go in. Don't use much, cause if you get oil on your fingers that makes it much, much harder, and I used the same screwdriver to work the rubber into the hole.
Rono